Diet and nutrition play a vital role in oral health. The foods and drinks we consume can have a significant impact on our teeth and gums. Eating a healthy diet can help to prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health problems.

In Northern Territory Australia, there is a high prevalence of oral health problems, particularly among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. This is due to a number of factors, including poor access to dental care, socioeconomic disadvantage, and unhealthy diets.

This article will discuss the importance of diet and nutrition for oral health.It will also provide tips for Northern Territory residents on how to eat a healthy diet for good oral health.

The impact of diet on oral health

The foods and drinks we consume can have a direct impact on our oral health. For example, sugary foods and drinks can contribute to tooth decay. When we eat or drink sugary foods, the bacteria in our mouths produce acids that attack our teeth. Over time, this can lead to cavities.

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Acidic foods and drinks can also erode tooth enamel. Tooth enamel is the hard outer layer of our teeth that protects them from decay. When tooth enamel is eroded, our teeth are more susceptible to decay and other dental problems.

In addition to sugary and acidic foods and drinks, certain other foods and drinks can also have a negative impact on oral health. For example, hard and chewy foods can break or crack teeth. Foods that are high in starch can also contribute to tooth decay. 

The importance of nutrition for oral health

In addition to diet, nutrition also plays a vital role in oral health. Our bodies need certain nutrients to develop and maintain healthy teeth and gums. These nutrients include:

• Calcium: Calcium is essential for building and maintaining strong teeth and bones.
• Vitamin D: Vitamin D helps our bodies absorb calcium.
• Phosphorus: Phosphorus is another mineral that is important for strong teeth and bones.
• Fluoride: Fluoride helps to strengthen tooth enamel and prevent tooth decay.
• Vitamin C: Vitamin C is important for healthy gums.

Tips for eating a healthy diet for good oral health

There are a number of things that Northern Territory residents can do to eat a healthy diet for good oral health, including:

• Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables: Fruits and vegetables are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that are essential for good oral health.
• Choose whole grains over refined grains: Whole grains are a good source of fiber, which can help to keep our teeth and gums clean.
• Limit sugary foods and drinks: Sugary foods and drinks are a major cause of tooth decay.
• Limit acidic foods and drinks: Acidic foods and drinks can erode tooth enamel.
• Choose lean protein sources: Lean protein sources, such as fish, chicken, and beans, are good sources of nutrients that are important for oral health.
• Limit processed foods: Processed foods are often high in sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats. These foods can have a negative impact on our overall health, including our oral health.

Conclusion

Eating a healthy diet is one of the best things we can do for our oral health. By following the tips above, Northern Territory residents can reduce their risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health problems.

source: National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Oral Health Plan 2019-2024